Inclusion Lead (Grade 9)

Position: Inclusion Lead (Grade 9) – Interim Location: The Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY Start Date: ASAP (target start date: 31 August 2026) Contract Duration: 18 weeks Working Hours: 37 hours per week; work pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate Pay Rate: PAYE: £269.23 per day Job Reference: OR(phone number removed) Job Responsibilities Manage and coordinate Stage 1 SEND complaints from receipt through to resolution. Acknowledge, investigate and respond to complaints within agreed timescales. Review relevant records, evidence and information to support thorough investigations. Communicate clearly and professionally with parents, carers, schools and other professionals. Prepare accurate, fair and well-structured complaint responses. Work with internal services and partner agencies to resolve concerns at the earliest opportunity. Identify key issues, themes, trends and lessons arising from complaints. Maintain accurate complaint records and monitoring information. Recommend improvements and contribute to action planning based on complaint outcomes. Support compliance with SEND legislation, statutory guidance and local authority procedures. Escalate complex or high-risk matters to the Senior Inclusion Lead where appropriate. Attend relevant meetings and contribute to a culture of openness, learning and continuous improvement. Person Specification Must-Have Requirements Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, guidance and processes. Experience investigating complaints or resolving complex concerns. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong analytical, investigative and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. Commitment to improving outcomes and experiences for children and young people with SEND. Eligible to work in the UK. Enhanced DBS clearance. Valid driving insurance covering commercial and business use. Criminal Convictions Declaration. Confidentiality Agreement. Up-to-date CV. Nice-to-Have Requirements Experience working within a local authority, education or SEND service. Knowledge of statutory complaints and dispute resolution procedures. Experience working with families, schools and multi-agency partners